Angela’s husband Mark sadly passed away due to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy in June 2010.
On SUDEP Action Day, Angela shares her memories of Mark and why more awareness of SUDEP is needed.
If you have been affected by SUDEP, please phone our helpline on 0808 800 2200 or contact SUDEP Action at www.sudep.org.uk
Can you tell us a bit about your husband as a person?
Mark was a hardworking, family man, father, son and brother. He worked for ScotRail and loved playing golf in his spare time.
How old was your husband when he was diagnosed with epilepsy and how did he feel when first diagnosed?
Mark collapsed from a brain aneurism when he was 20, while they were operating, they hit nerves which caused his epilepsy.
He had mixed feelings; he was happy to be alive and well but obviously now had epilepsy to deal with.
What type of seizures did your husband have and how did it affect him?
He had full blown seizures, but they were nocturnal, this affected his work and his mental health, as on occasion, he didn’t want to go to bed, as he was scared of having a seizure.
Can you tell us what happened to your husband on the day he passed away?
Mark’s behaviour had changed about a week or two before his death. He would say and do things that at the time I was describing as selfish, but now I realise it was part of his ill health.
I had been out with friends on the night of his death, he was in the house watching our children. I came home about 00.30/00.45am and he was lying on the bathroom floor.
Did you know much about SUDEP before your husband passed away?
No, I hadn’t heard of it before Mark’s death.
Do you feel there is more needed in terms of awareness regarding SUDEP? Or other actions that need to be taken regarding SUDEP?
Yes, I feel knowledge and awareness is always helpful, although not sure I could have done anything to prevent his death.
What help and support have you received after husband passed away?
I was lucky enough to have a good understanding doctor at the time, who helped me through the grief.
What would you say to someone who has lost a loved one to SUDEP?
I would say not to blame yourself. It is a big condition, and no one really knows why it happens.
How would you like husband to be remembered?
I would like him to be remembered for the loving family man that he was to his children and not the condition that caused his death.
You can find out more about SUDEP by clicking here.